Oregon Hunting, Fishing Could Get More Expensive Next Year – License Fees to Rise?

Oregonians who want to recreate might have to dig deeper into pockets, starting in 2015.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife could be raising fees on licenses for hunting and fishing, as well as tags, as part of a plan to close a large budget deficit.

The Fish and Wildlife Commission is seeking revenue to close a projected $32 million dollar gap in the 2015-2017 budget. Ideas to make up the funding include asking for money from the state's general fund, cutting staff and programs.

They are also considering raising prices on all licenses and tags, which would affect outdoorsmen. The amount of the potential price increases was not released. The Commission will meet again later this summer to send their budget to the legislature and governor for approval.